Walter Bagehot: “There are periods when great ideas are 'in the air,' and when, from…”

On the record

There are periods when great ideas are 'in the air,' and when, from some cause or other, even common persons seem to partake of an unusual elevation.

Said by

Walter Bagehot

Source

He notes that certain historical periods are marked by a surge of great ideas that elevate public thought.

More from Walter Bagehot

They are above corruption because they are the corruptors.

But, above all things, they were frightened of 'the world;' the spectacle of nature filled them with awe and dread.

The moderate people of every party must combine to support the Government which, on the whole, suits every party best.

But as soon as the House met, Lord Thurlow became the greatest.

Other voices in this conversation

Walter Bagehot: “There are periods when great ideas are 'in the air,' and when, from some cause or other, even common persons seem to…”